Bengaluru, Dec 13 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his concern that casteism is increasingly prevalent among educated individuals and urged for its eradication.

He made these remarks after attending the Bharat Ratna Prof. C.N.R. Rao 10th Annual Science Outreach Programme-2025 in Lakshmeshwar, located in the Gadag district.

“The social reformer Basavanna declared, ‘Do not ask who he is,’ over 850 years ago. Yet, despite 79 years of independence and a literacy rate of 76 percent, casteism still persists. Alarmingly, it is more pronounced among the educated, and we must put an end to this,” the Chief Minister stated.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that the core purpose of education is to foster scientific thinking and rationality. “If we do not eliminate inequality and if educated individuals continue to indulge in blind practices, creating a truly humane society will remain impossible,” he asserted.

“We have enacted the Anti-Superstition Act. It is regrettable that superstitions still thrive in the land of Basavanna. Superstitions and blind beliefs need to be eliminated. The Constitution upholds fraternity, liberty, and equality. Without genuine adherence to these principles, neither casteism nor inequality will fade away. Education is crucial for developing one’s human potential,” he added.

“All religions advocate for humanity, but certain vested interests misinterpret their teachings. Instead of resigning to fate during crises, anyone can achieve success through determination and hard work, regardless of their background. Education is not limited to a specific class. With sincere effort and by seizing opportunities, one can achieve remarkable success. The essence of science is to promote a scientific outlook and rational thought,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his experiences with former bureaucrat B.S. Patil during official trips when Patil was Chief Secretary, Siddaramaiah shared that Patil hailed from a farming background, pursued education, joined the Army, and eventually became an IAS officer.

“Despite facing an accident, his strong willpower enabled him to pass the IAS examination. He retired as Chief Secretary, demonstrating integrity and a deep commitment to the state’s development,” Siddaramaiah noted.

Patil also served as Principal Secretary to former Chief Minister J.H. Patel. “J.H. Patel was exceptionally intelligent, and B.S. Patil ensured the efficient execution of work without undue pressure. Under J.H. Patel's leadership, a committee led by Patil assessed Bengaluru's division. Currently, another committee under his guidance has submitted a report, facilitating the division of Greater Bengaluru into five corporations. Patil has significantly contributed to the state, making it fitting for the Chandan Educational Institution to honor him,” he remarked.

Referring to Prof. C.N.R. Rao as one of India’s rare scientific luminaries, Siddaramaiah noted that Rao was educated in the Kannada medium until SSLC, while B.S. Patil was educated in English. “C.N.R. Rao ascended to the pinnacle of science. His research was his life’s work, supported significantly by his wife,” he stated.

Siddaramaiah recalled that India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, emphasized the importance of developing a scientific mindset. He urged that every Indian student should nurture scientific and rational thinking. India, with its diverse castes and religions, must strive to establish a secular and egalitarian society.